Actor Yoo Ah-in (real name Uhm Hong-sik, 38) has been released from custody after receiving a suspended sentence in his appeal trial. The ruling comes approximately five months after his initial detention.

Court Ruling: Suspended Sentence & Community Service

On February 18, the Seoul High Court's Criminal Division 5 ruled on Yoo Ah-in's appeal case regarding violations of the Narcotics Control Act. The court sentenced him to one year in prison, suspended for two years.

The ruling overturned the original sentence of one year in prison. Additionally, the court imposed:

• A fine of 2 million KRW (~$1,500)
• A forfeiture of approximately 1.55 million KRW (~$1,160)
• 80 hours of community service
• 40 hours of drug rehabilitation and counseling

Yoo Ah-in's Court Appearance

Yoo Ah-in appeared in court wearing a light blue prison uniform with a shaved head and glasses. He looked tense, confirming his date of birth before the proceedings began. Throughout the hearing, he kept his head lowered, displaying a solemn demeanor.

Court's Rationale for the Verdict

The presiding judge stated:
"Yoo Ah-in habitually administered and purchased medical narcotics, including propofol. He even used the identities of his family and acquaintances to commit these offenses, which is a serious crime."

However, the court also considered mitigating factors in its decision:

• "Yoo Ah-in has suffered from chronic insomnia and depression for a long time. His drug use appears to have been intended for medical purposes to alleviate his condition."
• "He does not currently show signs of drug dependency, and we believe he is unlikely to reoffend."
• "He has spent over five months in custody reflecting on his actions, and he has no prior criminal record for similar offenses."

Reaction to the Ruling

Upon hearing the suspended sentence, Yoo Ah-in lowered his head once again in acknowledgment. He shook hands with his legal counsel, while some of his acquaintances in the courtroom sighed in relief.

Photo Credit: Dispatch DB